Outreach Materials Cover Letter

From: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the D.C. Department of Health, the Washington Aqueduct, and the D.C. Water and Sewer Authority

Enclosed is new information to help keep you informed on research and other issues related to lead levels in the District of Columbia's tap water.

A Research Newsletter describing studies of the lead issue and solutions;

A Community Update on recent developments of interest to the general public;

A fact sheet on the results of blood lead level testing of District residents; and

A fact sheet on the health effects of lead.

If you would like additional copies of these or any background materials free of charge, please call (703) 247-6193 or e-mail leadoutreach@cadmusgroup.com. Please provide your name, mailing address, and the number and type of materials you are requesting. (The back of the Community Update lists various available publications.)

We last sent you information in August 2004 about the anticipated start of the orthophosphate treatment and its potential effects. Orthophosphate was introduced into the District’s drinking water that month. Two initial side effects of the treatment were minor incidences of red water and an increase in the detection rate of coliform bacteria. Both were short lived and did not have any impact on public health. Also, neither has been reported in the District since October 2004.

Lead monitoring results in 2005 showed that 90 percent of the 100 homes tested had lead levels at or below 15 parts per billion (ppb). While these samples tested below the level cited in EPA's action level, it is important that all District residents continue to follow the consumer advisory for flushing their taps, and that those whose homes may have a lead service line continue using filters before drinking the water. The advisory continues because the Federal Lead and Copper Rule requires this until lead levels remain below the action level for two consecutive six-month periods.